Blast Hole Tracking with RFID and GPS
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Solution Overview
Problem
The manual recording and correlation of blast hole data with detonators and explosives in mining operations is time-consuming and prone to human error, making it inefficient and unreliable.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for remotely identifying and correlating blast holes with GPS devices and machine-readable wireless identifiers, such as RFID tags, to automate the data collection and tracking of blast hole locations and associated detonators, using a data reception system to store and process this information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If manual recording and correlation methods are used for blast hole data, then the system complexity is low, but the productivity is low and human error occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces manual mechanical recording processes with automated electronic identification systems. RFID tags and GPS devices automatically capture and transmit blast hole data, eliminating the need for manual data collection and correlation. This substitution dramatically improves productivity while the standardized implementation keeps system complexity manageable.
Solution Approach 2:
The identification system operates autonomously without requiring manual intervention. RFID tags automatically relay identification data when detected, and GPS devices continuously provide location information. The system self-correlates blast hole data with drill patterns and detonator information, eliminating human error and improving efficiency.
2Measurement precision
If automated identification systems with RFID and GPS are deployed for each blast hole, then the productivity and accuracy are improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs universal RFID tags and GPS devices that serve multiple functions simultaneously. These devices not only identify individual blast holes but also track their locations, correlate with drill patterns, and associate with detonator information. This multi-functionality achieves high measurement precision without proportionally increasing system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a centralized data processing system that acts as an intermediary between the distributed RFID/GPS devices and the blast hole data. This intermediary consolidates identification data, location information, and correlation data, managing the complexity centrally while allowing individual blast hole devices to remain simple and standardized.
3Loss of time
If manual data recording by drilling and blast crews is used, then the ease of operation is high, but the loss of time and human error increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-equipping each blast hole with RFID tags and GPS devices before drilling begins. This allows automatic data collection to start immediately as drilling progresses, eliminating the time-consuming manual data gathering process. The system is prepared in advance to capture all necessary information automatically.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent establishes continuous feedback loops where RFID readers and GPS receivers automatically detect and record data from blast hole devices in real-time. This feedback mechanism continuously updates the central system with current blast hole status, location, and correlation information, dramatically reducing data collection time and eliminating human error while maintaining operational simplicity through automated processes.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution significantly reduces the time and error associated with data transfer, enabling more efficient and accurate tracking and monitoring of blast holes and detonators, improving operational efficiency and safety in mining operations.
Implementation Method 1
a plurality of GPS devices capable of relaying information related to a location of the respective GPS device
Implementation Method 2
radio frequency signalling devices, magnetic bar codes, optical wires, and magnetic induction identification tags
Data Source
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AI summary
A system and method is provided for identifying any one or more of a plurality of blast holes in a drill pattern. The method involves providing each blast hole in a drill pattern with an individually identifiable first identifier and a GPS device capable of relaying identification and location data for the respective blast hole. A data reception system is provided to receive the data and store it in a database for processing purposes. The information may be later used to correlate any one or more of the blast holes with a corresponding detonator.